Selma University receives $750,000 to preserve historic Pollard Hall

Selma University has received a $750,000 award from the National Park Service (NPS) to preserve the historic Pollard Hall on campus. 

According to an announcement from Rep. Terri Sewell, NPS is investing $9.7 million into preserving structures at Historically Black Colleges and Universities or HBCUs. 

“I’m thrilled to announce that the National Park Service is investing $750,000 to preserve the historic Pollard Hall on the campus of Selma University!” said Sewell in the announcement. “This funding will enable Selma University to make critical repairs to Pollard Hall to ensure that the rich legacy of this cherished institution lives on for generations."

"Each year, I’m proud to lead the effort in Congress to increase funding for the National Park Service Historic Preservation Civil Rights Grant Program to preserve Alabama’s Civil Rights sites and HBCUs. As Vice Chair of the Congressional HBCU Caucus, I will continue fighting for funding like this to ensure the vitality of Alabama’s HBCUs!”

Pollard Hall was built in 1916, said Sewell's announcement. It has hosted famous Black educators such as Booker T. Washington. 

The funds will go to repairing the roof, HVAC system, and electrical and plumbing systems. A new elevator will also be installed. The recipient will match the funds with $496,414.

“The historic structures on Selma University’s campus are dear to us and tell the story of a people who banded their meager resources to build a better life for themselves and their posterity,” said Selma University President Dr. Stanford E. Angion. 

“These structures must be preserved and shared with the public. I am tremendously grateful to Representative Terri Sewell and the National Park Service for helping us to move forward in our efforts to preserve the rich history of Pollard Hall.”